- Wildlife
- Wildflowers
- Hedge Woundwort
Philip Precey
About
Growing in hedgerows, woodlands and roadside verges, Hedge Woundwort is a common, perhaps unremarkable, plant with one defining feature - its unpleasant and astringent smell. This smell is particularly apparent when the plant is crushed. Magenta flowers appear between June and October and are pollinated by bees. Once the seed is dispersed, the plant spreads vigorously using its underground rhizomes (stems).
How to identify
Hedge Woundwort has hairy stems bearing whorls of magenta-pink flowers that have white markings on the lower 'lip' and a 'hood'. Its hairy leaves are dark green, heart-shaped and toothed.
Where to find it
Widespread.
Habitats
When to find it
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
How can people help
Our hedgerows support all kinds of wildlife, providing vital food and shelter. But these habitats are disappearing with the intensification of agriculture. The Wildlife Trusts are working closely with farmers, landowners and developers to promote wildlife-friendly practices, such as planting hedges and leaving field margins. We have a vision of a 'Living Landscape': a network of habitats and wildlife corridors across town and country, which are good for both wildlife and people. You can support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.